The season is about to drive into full-swing and I’m rather busy preparing for the volunteers. The chief task I have right now is to prepare a training time and a type of manual for the volunteers.
I am convinced that one of the best ways to care for volunteers is by preparing for volunteers. When you have your facts straight, when answers are at your finger tips, and you have plenty of coffee and tea waiting in the wings, you are in prime position to care for your volunteers.
There is nothing more dreadful than having to rush around and throw a job together for a volunteer. It ups the tension a few notches and makes them feel unwanted. I think of preparation as a preemptive thank you. Having a neat work place or an organized project ready says that you value their time and are on their side.
If volunteers knows that you’re watching out for them, their time will be spent well.
Ed Cyzewski: Author // Contemplative 